Who knew brats could be so simple yet so flavorful? It’s like they carry a little bit of Oktoberfest in every bite—minus the lederhosen and polka music. The aroma that fills the kitchen when these are baking is an event in itself, reminiscent of fall fairs and cozy gatherings. Sometimes, on a brisk autumn evening, you just need something hearty, something straightforward—like this.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 425º Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to simplify cleanup.
- Arrange the bratwursts on the prepared sheet, ensuring there’s at least a 1-inch gap between each sausage.
- Bake the bratwursts for 8 minutes, then turn them over and continue baking for another 6 minutes.
- Adjust your oven setting to high broil and place the baking sheet on the center rack; broil for 3 minutes for a nice char.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the brats have reached an internal temperature of 160ºF before serving.
Ingredients
- 5 uncooked bratwursts
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1100kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 45g | Fat: 95g | Saturated Fat: 35g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 10g | Monounsaturated Fat: 50g | Cholesterol: 245mg | Sodium: 2790mg | Potassium: 1150mg | Vitamin A: 20IU | Calcium: 90mg | Iron: 1.5mg
FAQ
- Can bratwurst be cooked in the oven?
- Absolutely, cooking bratwurst in the oven is a convenient method, especially when a grill isn’t available. This technique works well for beer brats, Italian sausages, and even kielbasa.
- What is the ideal temperature for baking bratwurst?
- While opinions vary, a temperature of 425ºF is recommended for baking bratwurst. This temperature allows the brats to cook quickly and achieve a crispy exterior.
- How can you tell if bratwurst is fully cooked?
- Bratwurst is fully cooked when its internal temperature reaches 160ºF. Using a meat thermometer, like the Thermoworks ThermaPen, helps ensure accuracy.
- What are some recommended toppings and sides for bratwurst?
- Traditional bratwurst toppings include mustard, sauerkraut, and grilled onions. Popular sides to serve with bratwurst are German potato salad, tomato cucumber salad, and grilled corn on the cob.
- How should leftover bratwurst be stored?
- Leftover bratwurst should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator, where they will remain fresh for up to 3-4 days.
Tips
- To achieve crispy and juicy bratwurst, bake them at a high temperature of 425°F, then broil them briefly to create a charred exterior similar to grilling.
- Ensure there’s at least 1 inch of space between each bratwurst on the baking sheet for even cooking and to help them crisp up nicely.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the bratwursts reaches 160°F, ensuring they are fully cooked.
- For easy cleanup, line your baking sheet with aluminum foil before placing the bratwurst on it.
Equipment
- Rimmed Baking Sheet with at least 1″ edges
- Meat Thermometer (e.g., Thermoworks ThermaPen)
- Aluminum Foil
